Japan implements dual pricing as tourism surges due to weak yen

A prolonged period of a weak yen has led to a massive influx of foreign tourists to Japan, with visitor numbers exceeding 42 million last year—a 70% increase over two years. This surge has caused significant local disruption, including overcrowding at sites like Mount Fuji, traffic issues, and increased litter in urban areas.

In response to the strain on local infrastructure and residents, various regions are adopting “dual pricing” systems. Kyoto plans to implement differentiated rates for city buses and tourist attractions starting next year, offering lower prices for residents and significantly higher rates for visitors. Some restaurants have also begun offering different menus, with English versions sometimes priced twice as high as Japanese ones. While some sites, such as Himeji Castle, saw a 17% drop in visitors after implementing dual pricing, others like Mount Fuji have seen continued growth despite new fees.